Author: Joydip Sur

I'm a journalist with over a decade of experience and an all consuming passion for automobile and motorsports.

The MINI Cooper S And The All-Electric MINI Countryman Launched

Joydip SurLeave a comment

The new MINI family has found a new home in India with the launch of the new MINI Cooper S and the new all-electric MINI Countryman. The cars will be available as completely built-up units (CBU) and can be booked at all MINI authorised dealers across the country as well as shop.mini.in. Deliveries will begin from September 2024.

The fifth generation MINI Cooper S and the electrified third generation MINI Countryman combine progressive technology with basic principles of MINI body language and origins. Together, they pack an innovative punch with a new personality and hallmark driving dynamics.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “MINI has always rewritten and reinvented itself for the modern day, time and time again without neglecting its own origins and traditions. The new MINI family, with a purist design, an immersive user experience, a responsible attitude and charismatic simplicity, takes the driving fun into a new era. MINI’s constant development and its ability to regularly set new trends have established a strong fanbase in India.” Modern and colourful, additional stylish ‘Classic Pack’ and ‘Favoured Pack’ are optionally
available and offer designs and equipment that give a distinctive character.

The ex-showroom prices as follows:
The new MINI Cooper S – INR 44,90,000
The new all-electric MINI Countryman – INR 54,90,000

The MINI Cooper S

Modern, digital and unmistakable, the new MINI family takes driving fun, user experience, and responsible attitude of the brand into a new era, a comprehensive transformation that is reflected in the new design language ‘Charismatic Simplicity’. This combines the traditional MINI values with progressive innovations in a particularly authentic way, reducing the vehicle design to the essentials. The new MINI family shares a purist design that takes equal account of the urban character and the innovative spirit of the MINI community.

Short overhangs, short bonnet, long wheelbase, and big wheels – the proportions of the new model generation are typical MINI. The visual three-part division into the vehicle body, surrounding window area and contrasting roof ensure the new MINI models are instantly recognizable. The surfaces look particularly exciting thanks to an integrative treatment of details. Absence of side scuttles and flush door handles in the MINI Countryman, underline the clear and modern overall impression. A clearly defined shoulder area gives the new MINI models a decidedly athletic body. A wider stance on the rear, characteristic charisma and a modern minimalist design with clearly designed surfaces, MINI now has a significantly enhanced presence.

The striking appearance of the car is further enhanced by three selectable Signatures Modes (Classic, Favoured and John Cooper Works) for the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) of the LED headlights and the redesigned matrix rear lights. All three modes begin and end with a specially orchestrated welcome and goodbye animation. Minimalist design, digital innovations and an immersive user experience are the hallmarks of the interior. The MINI Interaction Unit takes a quantum leap into the digital age with the hi-resolution 240mm Circular OLED touchscreen display. It is the defining feature of the interior with a completely new feel and versatile functions. It has moved closer to the driver and can be operated similar to a smartphone.

The new MINI Operating System 9 is optimized for touchscreen and voice control and provides advanced connectivity for maximum ease of use. The new MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) can be activated by saying “Hey MINI” to control a wide range of functions such as navigation, telephony, entertainment and others. The innovative MINI Digital Key Plus turns the smartphone into a car key via the MINI App and can be transferred to different users, along with their personal vehicle settings. Head-up Display projects all relevant information directly in the driver’s line of sight. A Fisheye Camera can capture selfies, fun moments and videos with sound, inside the cabin and is capable of transfers via a QR code. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System is an aural treat. Other features include Navigation, Remote Services, Remote Software Upgrades, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, Teleservices, In-Car Weather and Intelligent Emergency Call.

The new interior experience is mainly created by the textile surfaces. A specially developed knitting process is used to create the easy-care, versatile structure of the two-tone textile. The dashboard and door panels are completely chrome-free and leather-free, using recycled 2D knitted fabric lining. The textile surface is made luminescent by ambient lighting and projections from the MINI Interaction Unit that make even rush hour relaxing. The new multifunction steering wheel adds to hallmark MINI go-kart feeling. With the MINI Experience Modes, one can choose from several immersive driving experiences, from the race-inspired ‘Go-Kart Mode’ to the energy-saving ‘Green Mode’ or the lively ‘Vivid Mode’ and more. MINI Experience Modes extend the indoor experience by tuning the light, sound and graphics settings.

A distinctive Toggle Bar Island gives access to the important driving functions including start/stop, gear selector, parking brake, experience modes and volume control. General storage area below the toggle bar provides space for a smartphone to be wirelessly charged. Sports Seats are covered in Vescin – a high-quality, perforated, artificial leather-free upholstery made from recycled materials The panoramic glass roof adds to the bright and spacious atmosphere. Electric seat adjustment with Active Seat for the driver is optionally available. The classic round headlights, striking octagonal grille and compact silhouette are the dominant features of the new MINI COOPER S, making the model the characteristic face of MINI. The new MINI Cooper S offers the innovative and efficient petrol engine powered by the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. It mobilises a peak output of 150 kW/204 hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 300 Nm at 1450-4500 rpm. The car sprints from 0 – 100 km/hr in 6.6 seconds and the top speed is 242 kmph. The 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Transmission offers efficient, comfortable and sporty driving due to a broader gear spread and smaller engine speed steps.

The New All-Electric MINI COUNTRYMAN

The new all-electric MINI COUNTRYMAN is the vehicle for the whole family. In its latest generation, it has not only grown in height (+6 cm), length (+13 cm) and interior — it has also noticeably improved in character, appearance, and experience. It is now even more present, more spacious and more stable. The versatile and powerful electric drive make it a perfect companion for unbridled driving fun even off the beaten track. With 150 kW/204 hp and a maximum torque of 250 Nm, the all-electric MINI Countryman sprints from 0-100 km in 8.6 seconds. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery with gross capacity of 66.45 kWh and has ample WLTP* driving range (combined) of up to 462 kms. The all-electric MINI Countryman ensures fast and hassle-free charging. Charging time is – 130 kW DC Charger –10 to 80% in 29 min (100 km top up range in 8 min) and 22 kW AC – 0 to 100% in 3 hrs 45 min.

In the MINI family, advanced assistance systems such as Cruise Control and Parking Assistant increase comfort, control and safety and relieve the driver from monotonous and less demanding aspects of driving. With new addition of Comfort Access, the car is locked / unlocked automatically as it recognises the key is at a distance of less than 1.5 meters. The standard MINIMALISM technology includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air ducts and electromechanical power steering. The wide range of alloy wheels depending on the variant, radiate confidence while reducing carbon footprint thanks to their lightweight design and use of recycled aluminium.

The standard SAFETY equipment comprises of front passenger airbags and side curtain airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Rear View Camera, and Tubeless Tyres with Tyre Pressure Indicator.

The All-New BMW CE 04 Launched In India

Joydip SurLeave a comment

BMW Motorrad India has launched its first electric offering – the all-new BMW CE 04, starting at an ex-showroom price of INR 14,90,000. The urban electric scooter will be available as a Completely Built-up Unit (CBU) in select metropolitan cities in India. Deliveries will commence from September 2024.
 
With its electric drive, forward-looking design and latest technology, the new scooter is built for a fresh mobility experience. The lightness of a scooter paired with the technology of a motorbike has been perfected for an urban environment.
 
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and Chief Executive Officer, BMW Group India said, “The all-new BMW CE 04 is the beginning of a whole new era of electro-mobility at BMW Motorrad India. It is the new electric star, made for the city. Quiet, quick and agile, the BMW CE 04 slips easily through the city, turning the urban sprawl into a playground. It’s big on design statement with futuristic and innovative style. Impressive power, latest technology and abundant range deliver a fun riding experience that you want to wake up for every day. An ideal companion for anyone who feels part of new urban living.”
 
The design of BMW CE 04 combines functionality and clear aesthetics with digital reality. The shape is dominated by large, calm surfaces, contrasted by sharp edges. The long, stretched form envelops the slim energy storage unit in the underfloor assembly and the compact drivetrain. The front end is excitingly broken up while the rear end reveals technological components, a typical feature of motorcycles. Powerful LED lighting all round increases safety. The floating seat underscores visual lightness. Side design is practical too, for instance, the charging compartment and helmet storage unit fold out towards the side. Trend-setting 15-inch standard wheels have a disc-like look and the side stand seamlessly blends in the styling. The low center of gravity represents a further benefit: fun handling, surprising dynamism and timeless riding pleasure.
 
Two striking colour concepts convey the modern and unmistakable design of BMW CE 04. The base variant is available in Light White and the optional Avantgarde style in Imperial blue metallic colour. The use of bright orange in seat of Style Avantgarde and the tinted wind shield creates an interesting contrast.
 
BMW CE 04’s innovative electric drive with liquid-cooled electric motor delivers a maximum output of 42 hp (31 kW). The permanent magnet electric motor is mounted in the frame between the battery and the rear wheel, similar to BMW cars. For the classic ‘traffic light starts’ from 0 to 50 km/hr, it gives instant acceleration in just 2.6 seconds. The maximum speed is 120 km/hr for speedy progress not just in the city but on main roads and motorway sections, too.
 
The lithium-ion battery with net capacity of 8.5 kWh provides abundant range of 130 kms and energy consumption of 7.7 kWh/100 kms. BMW CE 04 will come with a complimentary 2.3 kW home charger which takes 3 hrs 30 mins for 0 – 80% charge. An optional BMW Wallbox charger is also available.
 
Directionally stable suspension with one-piece tubular steel main frame provides smooth handling and a high level of ride comfort. At the front, the double disc brake is designed for reliable deceleration, assisted by the single disc brake at the rear. BMW Motorrad Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) adds additional active safety. Just as with conventionally powered BMW Motorrad models, the BMW CE 04 also comes with Automatic Stability Control (ASC). The new BMW CE 04 features three riding modes ECO, Rain and Road.
 
The multifunctional instrument cluster comes with a 10.25-inch TFT colour split screen with Bluetooth connectivity. The smartphone stays safe in the watertight and ventilated storage compartment and can be charged at the same time using a 12-volt port.
 
With the optional ‘Comfort Package’, riders can add Heated Grips and Backrest Comfort Seat. The optional ‘Dynamic Package’ offers Riding Modes Pro, Headlight Pro, ABS Pro, Adaptive Headlights and Daytime Riding Light. A comprehensive range of optional equipment and original BMW Motorrad accessories is available for
individualization.

Aston Martin Celebrates 60th Anniversary Of Goldfinger

Joydip SurLeave a comment

The House of Q, a new pop-up experience by Aston Martin inside London’s prestigious Burlington Arcade, has been created to celebrate 60 years of Aston Martin’s long-running association with the 007 film franchise. The relationship began with the 1964 release of Goldfinger, the film which introduced James Bond to the now iconic DB5.

Launched alongside V57, a special James Bond anniversary edition of Aston Martin’s luxury lifestyle magazine, the House of Q by Aston Martin is accessed through a secret door within what appears to be a magazine newsstand inside House 12-13 Burlington Arcade, off Piccadilly in London’s Mayfair. V57 features a specially designed illustration on the cover as well as editorial detailing the relationship between Aston Martin and 007.

Covert messages will lead guests through a secret door. Visiting agents will then discover a speakeasy bar serving Champagne Bollinger. The bar is adorned with technical drawings and parts from the original DB5 with sketches, diagrams and schematics from the archives of both Aston Martin and EON Productions. On display is a top-secret Q flight case, along with hints at a future Aston Martin model, for those able to uncover it.

Often described as “the most famous car in the world”, the DB5 is the car that established Aston Martin as one of Britain’s most desirable luxury brands, quickly becoming the ultimate status symbol of the Swinging Sixties. First launched in September 1963, DB5 had a potent 4.0-litre engine and a top speed exceeding 150mph. Its styling, courtesy of Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera, created a sophisticated design, which when matched with its performance produced a car that people dreamed of owning. When DB5 was chosen to be in Goldfinger, laden with gadgets to help Bond fight his arch-enemy Auric Goldfinger, its iconic status was sealed forever.

Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer of Aston Martin, said: “Aston Martin and James Bond are two British icons, forever linked. We are delighted to be celebrating this important 60th anniversary throughout 2024, marking the continuation of what is cinema’s longest running and most successful product placement.

“The House of Q by Aston Martin provides something very special for our community of Aston Martin customers, enthusiasts, and fans of 007 to enjoy. We encourage everyone to join us on an immersive entry into the world of Bond and Aston Martin, celebrating our unique history with the films, spanning back to Goldfinger.”

The Bond theme is carried into every detail at the House of Q by Aston Martin where guests will see the original Goldfinger script, film posters and set photography. Sound is delivered by the stunning audio of Bowers & Wilkins, a brand with an enduring relationship with the music of Bond.

Guests may also head upstairs where they will discover the Configurator Lab. This will provide the opportunity for customers to work with Aston Martin design experts to configure their perfect Aston Martin.

The House of Q will host daily events, including design workshops hosted by the Aston Martin design and engineering teams.

From Burlington Arcade’s inception in 1819, it has positioned itself as an exclusive shopping destination for luxury brands. The prime location of the Arcade is parallel to Bond Street and has an entry via Piccadilly. Today the arcade is home to 47 brands specialising in accessories focused on watches, jewellery. leather goods, shoes and cashmere.

Trupti Shah, Commercial Director Burlington Arcade commented: ‘’Burlington Arcade is thrilled to be jointly celebrating this milestone year for James Bond and Aston Martin. The continued partnership between our brands is extremely exciting and we are honoured to be the landmark destination capturing this iconic moment in cinema history.’’

The House of Q by Aston Martin opens to the public on Thursday 18 July and can be found at House 12-13, Burlington Arcade, 51 Piccadilly, London W1J 0QJ. It will remain in Burlington Arcade until Sunday 4 August.

Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain For Next Flying Spur

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Bentley’s Flying Spur sedan – the ultimate four-door Grand Tourer – is set to be reborn with the company’s new 782 PS (771 bhp) Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain. Launched recently in Bentley’s new Continental GT Speed, the all-new, performance-focused V8 hybrid powertrain will make the new Flying Spur the most powerful, most dynamic and most efficient four-door car in Bentley’s 105-year history. The new Flying Spur will replace the current model, which was launched in 2019.

With 782 PS and 1000 Nm (738 lb.ft) available from the union of a new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a powerful yet compact electric motor, the Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain is Bentley’s future, delivering astonishing flexibility from incredibly accessible supercar performance to silent, effortless electric luxury. When fitted to the new Flying Spur, the powertrain will create the ultimate Bentley sedan – potent and tranquil in equal measure, with the added benefit of soundless electric motoring for at least 45 miles. For the Flying Spur, CO2 emissions will be below 40 g/km, with an overall range of more than 500 miles – a truly modern grand tourer.

The new powertrain follows Bentley’s long-standing tradition of supplementing class-leading combustion engines with technology to increase performance. Supercharging in the 1920s was the early forebear to the use of turbocharging from the 1980s to present day. Bentley now goes one step further – bringing even more performance through ‘electrocharging’ – using a potent hybrid system to create the most technologically advanced and most powerful powertrain in Bentley’s long history. The new system delivers almost 150 PS more than the W12 engine in the current Flying Spur Speed, with an additional 100 Nm of torque.

Due to the combination of the V8 engine and electric power, Bentley’s engineers have been able to deliver improved power and torque across the full rev range. This includes a vital boost from the electric motor for strong acceleration from low speeds and throughout the mid-range, combined with increased performance from the V8 engine at higher speeds too. A significant amount of development has also been invested in the exhaust note too, emphasising the cross-plane quality – and without the use of artificial, electronic enhancement.

Bentley Celebrates Pride In The North West With Uniquely Wrapped Car

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Bentley Motors has reconfirmed its year-round support for the LGBTQ+ community with the fourth dedicated Pride Car, uniquely wrapped for the North West Pride parades in the UK. Specially created by Designer Rich Morris, the brightly coloured Continental GTC represents love, new life, and acceptance.

The eye-catching convertible features colour and linework inspired by the original Unifying Spur. A chaotic single black line covers the car with faces emerging from the scribble. This symbolises the negative emotions that a person can go through when trying to come to terms with who they are, whether that is their gender or sexuality. This is covered by bright splashes of paint from the progressive Pride flag colour pallet which covers the car, inspired by Holi, the Hindu festival of colour, which celebrates spring, love, and new life. The colours cover the faces to show how make up and styling can be used to help an individual become the person they want to be. This promotes a world where LGBTQ+ people are free to live and love without prejudice, in a culture that is universally celebrated.

Colleagues, along with their partners and allies linked to the colleague-led Bentley network will take part in the Crewe, Nantwich, and Manchester Pride parades, helping to reinforce the message that the company has a culture where all employees feel comfortable bringing their true, authentic selves to the workplace.The parades themselves celebrate the progress made whilst continuing to raise awareness, bring hope to those in need and to inspire others to challenge discrimination.

Designer Rich Morris, who created the art work explained: “It has been an honour to work on this project for Bentley, following the success of my Unifying Spur design in 2021. This design symbolises the darkness and uncertainty one may experience during self-discovery. It employs colours and linework inspired by both the Unifying Spur and the Hindu festival of Holi, the festival of colour, which celebrates spring, love, and new life. This year’s car is about individuals embracing and being their true, authentic selves.”

Wayne Bruce, Chief Communications and DEI Officer at Bentley Motors, added:
“Our fourth dedicated Pride Car holds a special place in our DEI journey, which began in 2020 with the first car that bravely initiated the conversation. This initial step served as a catalyst, inspiring the creation of BeProud and sparking our ongoing DEI efforts. This latest Pride Car symbolises far more than just Pride — it represents our commitment to acceptance, intersectionality, and belonging and year around support.

“This year’s Pride Car is a celebration of these values, merging the inclusive symbolism of the Progress Flag with the vibrant, joyful spirit of Holi. It embodies our dedication to diversity and unity, striving to cultivate a culture where everyone feels they belong. This car stands as a powerful testament to our mission, encapsulating what #BelongingAtBentley truly means.”

78% Women Drivers Consider Aggression On The Roads To Be A Serious Problem

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year celebrates June 24th, International Women Drivers’ Day by drawing attention to women drivers’ perspective concerning behaviour. A survey led by Czech online magazine Zena v aute.cz for women drivers contacted 1,485 female drivers worldwide in an online questionnaire. It revealed that 78% of women drivers consider aggression on the roads to be a serious problem and 69% respondents think that aggressive behaviour on the roads has been increasing.

The survey was carried out during May 2024 in 20 countries around the world (Australia, Austria, Belgium, Columbia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, New Zealand, Pakistan, Poland, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland, UK, and USA). The expert advisor of the survey was Platforma Vize0.

“Through a questionnaire we analyzed how women-drivers feel, what they fear, how they behave behind the wheel, and on roads. The results of the survey are remarkable,” says Sabina Kvášová, Jury of the Czech Republic and editor-in-chief of the magazine Zena v aute.cz, conductor of the survey.

Concerns while driving
What are women drivers afraid of when driving? According to the study, there are three main topics about which women drivers have concerns: aggressive drivers (22%), accidents (20%) and driving in reduced visibility (20%), followed by skidding (13%) and collision with animals (9%). About 16% of those interviewed think there is to worry about.

It is interesting to look at answers that vary from country to country. For example, aggressive drivers as a main concern while driving was mostly stated by respondents from USA (82%), Spain (31%) and Poland (38%). Accidents as a main fear was represented in answers from Italy (51%), Poland (35%) and Germany (31%). Driving in reduced visibility is a subject of concern mainly for women drivers from UK (52%), Germany (50%) and Poland (20%).

The survey revealed that 78% of women drivers consider aggression on the roads as a serious problem and 69% respondents think that aggressive behaviour on the roads has been increasing.

A survey organizer and member of the WWCOTY jury, Sabina Kvasova stated that the majority of women drivers worldwide sporadically encounter (55%) aggressive behaviour on the roads. Only 25% of respondents encounter aggressive behaviour every day, 20% several times a week.

What women drivers propose
When asked what measures should be taken against aggressors, women drivers worldwide support mainly strict penalties (45%), specialized psychological therapy program (27%), training of future drivers (20%) and prevention campaigns (6%).

Looking at specific countries, strict penalties against aggressive drivers are supported by women drivers profoundly in Denmark and Serbia (97%), followed by USA (54%) and Italy (50%). Obligation to undergo a specialised psychological therapy program for drivers and subsequent psychological assessment of a driver’s mental abilities have a strong support in Denmark a Serbia (97%), USA (54%) and in Poland as well as in Columbia (50%). Future drivers must be made aware of the risks associated with aggressiveness on the roads during their training – as a proposed measure is backed in the UK (43%), Italy (42%), Spain (30%). Prevention campaigns on the dangers of aggression were mainly stated in the answers of respondents from USA (45%), Poland (37%) and Germany (24%).

With this study, the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year aims to publicize women driver’s perspective concerning driving behaviour. International Women Drivers’ Day, a day that vindicates mobility as an inalienable right that contributes to the freedom, dignity, and personal and professional development of women, is the perfect organization to highlight this survey. Driving opens the door to independence for millions of women around the world to seek a better future, to achieve fairer living conditions, and to pursue their passion for motorsports.

Today, women influence more than 80% of car purchases in advanced countries. This number will continue or grow in the coming years. “The percentage of young women university students is already higher in developed countries. Salary parity is beginning to be an achievable goal, Boards of Directors are no longer exclusively male, and in the lists of the richest people in the world, it is not unusual to see more and more women’s names,” says Marta García, executive president of WWCOTY.

International Women Drivers Day also celebrates amplifying the importance of women expressing their opinions and experiences about cars on social networks. The number of women globally on Instagram is 53.6%, Facebook 44%, LinkedIn 43.7% and TikTok 49.2%. For women, it’s not just about performance and safety, but also about saving the planet through environmental awareness without losing the right to the freedom to come and go where and when you want.

International Women Drivers’ Day is cause for reflection. Many women still feel scrutinized by their partners when they drive, use only the second family car, or feel little support in the world of motorsports. That’s why the celebration of International Women Drivers’ Day, an initiative promoted by Women’s World Car of the Year, is more important than ever. A future of sustainable mobility and equality is only possible with the contribution of women.

Times Are Changing – Preservation Beats Restoration At World-Class Concours

Joydip SurLeave a comment

For the very first time, a ‘preserved’ car has won Best of Show at a world-class concours event – a moment of huge significance for the historic vehicle movement.

At last month’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2024, the coveted Trofeo BMW Group – overall award for Best of Show – went to the 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 by Figoni, owned by 27-year-old Belgian collector Thibault De Meester.

“The huge significance of this moment is that a car which has been largely preserved, rather than restored, took the highest accolade,” says Tiddo Bresters, President of FIVA (the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens or international federation of historic vehicles).

“It clearly highlights the trend towards preservation over restoration, a shift that FIVA has long championed. We are proud to say that FIVA has been a frontrunner in the battle for preservation and authenticity, having launched our FIVA ‘Best Preserved Vehicle’ award at Pebble Beach in 1999. Nor is the Villa d’Este result a one-off. In 2023, a Duesenberg SJ that was last restored more than 20 years ago won Best of Show at Villa d’Este, and now this perfectly preserved 1932 Alfa Romeo has confirmed that attitudes have changed.”

Bresters concludes: “Looking ‘brand new’ isn’t the point – the importance of a car is in its history; its authenticity; its place in our automotive heritage. It’s extremely encouraging to see this appreciation of a well-preserved car spreading through the highest echelons of the historic vehicle world, as well as through the bedrock of the classics owned, maintained and enjoyed by the millions of enthusiasts we represent around the globe.”

FIVA now looks forward with great interest to Pebble Beach 2024. Whether or not a ‘preserved’ vehicle takes the top prize there in August, FIVA – in partnership with the Hagerty Drivers Foundation – will again be presenting trophies during Monterey Week, at both The Quail Motorsports Gathering and Pebble Beach, awards that have been renamed ‘in honour of Dr Frederick Simeone’, the preservation award judge and automotive historian who passed away in 2022.

Kia India Surpasses 250,000 Vehicle Exports Milestone

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Kia India has announced the achievement of a significant milestone of surpassing 250,000 vehicle exports. Since 2019, the company has shipped 255,133 units internationally to over 100 markets from its Anantapur manufacturing facility. The Seltos has been the major contributor, accounting for 59% of the company’s overall overseas dispatches. Kia’s other innovations – Sonet and Carens follow in second and third places, contributing 34% and 7%, respectively.

Kia India is one of the key export hubs for the Kia corporation. However, in recent years, the company has focused more on selling its cars in the domestic markets and is now going to make 90% of products for India from this year. At present Kia India exports to over 100 international markets from its Anantapur facility. A few of the major markets for Kia India exports include South Africa, Chile, Paraguay and Latin America. Kia’s dedication to innovation and excellence has secured its place as a global leader in the automotive industry, both in India and globally.

Mr. Myung-sik Sohn, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India said, “Our dedication to quality and innovation has driven us to this milestone. The success of our Made in India vehicles internationally shows our commitment to quality. We’ve quickly become a major market for Kia Corporation and aim to maintain this momentum. While our focus is on the domestic market, we plan to keep our exports steady this year.”

Kia’s Anantapur plant, which commenced production around five years ago, has quickly become a crucial export hub within the company’s global network. The facility’s advanced production capabilities and adherence to the highest quality standards have enabled Kia to meet the demand for RVs worldwide.

Hyundai Motor Teases First Images Of All-Electric Inster

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled the first official teaser images of its new A-segment sub-compact EV: Inster.

The name Inster is derived from “intimate” and “innovative”, with the name of Hyundai’s new sub-compact EV also reflecting the evolution from the Korea-only, petrol-powered Casper, introduced in 2021. Inster will set new standards in terms of driving range, technology, and safety features, redefining what buyers can expect from a vehicle in this class.

The images reveal a robust yet compact SUV profile with signature LED daytime running lights, plus pixel-graphic turn signals and tail lamps that define the new sub-compact EV’s design.

Hyundai is also outlining Inster’s projected maximum range of 355 km (WLTP) on a single charge.

Inster will make its global debut at the Busan International Mobility Show later this month.

Volvo Car India Surpasses 1000 EV Deliveries

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Volvo Car India has announced that the company has crossed the historic milestone of delivering over one thousand EVs. Volvo Car India’s EV journey started in November 2022 with the company delivering its first XC40 Recharge. The XC40 Recharge was also the first locally assembled luxury electric SUV in India. Volvo Car India offers three EV models in India, the XC40 Recharge, the born electric C40 Recharge and the single motor XC40 Recharge. All these are delivered under the company’s ambitious Online Direct Sales model through the Volvo Car India website. All Volvo EV customers also get an exclusive membership to the company’s ultimate luxury program called ‘Tre Kronor Experience’.

“On the occasion of World Environment Day, we are happy to announce that Volvo Car India has delivered over 1000 EV cars. This achievement is another milestone on our journey towards becoming an all-electric company by 2030. Our robust progress is a reflection of strong customer confidence our cars command as well as our commitment to grow the luxury EV market in India.” said Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India.

Volvo Car India had a strong growth in 2023, with a remarkable 31% increase in overall sales compared to 2022. The Pure electric models XC40 Recharge & C40 Recharge together account for 28% of the total sales.

Volvo Car India is committed to launch one electric vehicle every year with an aim to turn its entire portfolio into electric vehicles ahead of 2030.